Teaching for Change

This powerful picture book biography spotlights Septima Poinsette Clark, the civil rights leader who taught Black adults how to combat Jim Crow-era voting regulations. Written by Septima’s granddaughter, Yvonne Clark-Rhines, along with acclaimed author Monica Clark-Robinson, this is a must-have for readers who were moved by Hidden Figures, The Oldest Student, and I Am Ruby Bridges.

Septima Clark was born poor, Black, and a girl. Being one of those things in 1898 was hard, but all three meant that access to education was going to be a fight. But with strong, hard-working women in her life, a determination to learn, and a passion for knowledge, Septima learned to read and write against all odds.

With stunning art by debut illustrator Abigail Albano-Payton, this lyrical biography charts the monumental life of one tenacious woman—once referred to as The Mother of the Civil Rights Movement by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—who made it her mission to bring equity to literacy. Thanks to her efforts, the Black community was able to rise up against oppressive Jim Crow laws that tried to stifle their votes.

Septima persevered through adversity, discrimination, and even wrongful arrests to ensure that the road to liberation remained open for all people. This story is a testament to the power and importance of community-minded action.